Colombo Bandaranayake International Airport, Colombo, Sri Lanka

Colombo Bandaranayake International Airport (sometimes spelt Bandaranaike Airport) is the largest of its kind in Sri Lanka, located around 30km to the north of the capital. Both the national carrier, SriLankan Airlines, and that nation's low-cost carrier, Mihin Lanka, use this airport as a hub.

The airport has two passenger terminals, with a third due to open in 2020.

Terminal 1 is the larger of the two, and deals with all international flights. A small shopping area is found between the security check-in and the departure gates, where you'll find airline lounges, cafes and duty-free shops.

Terminal 3 looks after all domestic and low-cost flights. In comparison with Terminal 1, it has fewer facilities, but still enough to keep passengers occupied while they wait for their departure.

Terminal 2 is currently under construction and is designed to cope with the increasing demand for international flights to Colombo.

Colombo Bandaranayake International Airport

The Colombo – Katunayake Expressway links the airport to the city. In good traffic, this route should take 20-30 minutes.

Buses
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The closest bus terminal to the airport is a 15-minute walk away, but luckily there is a free shuttle service between the two. Once you exit the airport terminal, turn left to find the shuttle stop.

From here, passengers have three options:

Large white buses are the typical local public transport. Line 187 goes to Colombo Fort, taking anywhere from one to two hours at a cost of 40 rupees. Some drivers may also charge for luggage.

Air-conditioned mini-buses are also available, generally for tourists. These can cost up to 100 rupees and will drop you at your hotel.

A private tuk-tuk ride can also be arranged, costing anywhere between 1000 and 1500 rupees. This trip will likely take an hour to complete.

Taxi
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Once you pass through customs you'll see a taxi counter. Go here for an official, licensed cab. After telling them your destination, they'll print off a voucher with your fare. A trip to hotels around Colombo Fort is likely to cost up to 2100 rupees and takes half an hour to complete.